Chemotherapy involves medications used to kill
or prevent the growth of tumor cells. Chemotherapy
drugs can be administered orally or intravenously.
While some forms of chemotherapy can be taken
at home, most must be administered in a doctor's
office or in the hospital.
Chemotherapy is not a single type of medication.
Rather, it encompasses a range of different drugs
prescribed either alone or in combination for
different purposes. In some cases, patients experience
temporary side effects from chemotherapy such
as hair loss. Nausea and vomiting are common
side effects, however, there are many new medications
available to help control these problems. Side
effects occur because medications can affect
normal cells along with the cancerous cells.
It is important to remember that each person
is different and that the effects of chemotherapy
drugs depend largely on the agents used and the
patient's general health. Most individuals are
able to maintain their normal, daily routines
during chemotherapy. Our doctors work with each
patient to develop a chemotherapy program that
delivers the most effective results with the
least amount of discomfort. We encourage you
to discuss any questions or concerns with you
doctor or nurse.